Modi’s address meant to pre-empt Supreme Court order: Congress

New Delhi, June 7

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PM Narendra Modi’s announcement on free Covid jabs for all adults evoked mixed reactions today with Odisha and Punjab CMs thanking him and those of Rajasthan and WB flagging the “late decision”.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot led the charge on the behalf of the Congress, which said the PM’s remarks were meant as a reaction to the matter pending in the SC.

“Several states challenged the Centre’s non-uniform vaccination policy in the SC, which is why the PM announced free vaccine for adults today,” said Gehlot. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted, “If vaccines are free for all, why should private hospitals charge for them?” West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said she had demanded free jabs in February. Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik thanked the PM. Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh also tweeted thanks: “I had written twice to PM Narendra Modi and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, suggesting this as the only feasible solution to the crisis.” — TNS